Photo Credit: Cricket Hong Kong
A delegation from Cricket Hong Kong, China recently concluded a successful visit to Shanghai, Beijing, and Jinan, where they engaged in fruitful discussions with officials from the General Administration of Sport of China, China Cricket Association, Shandong Small Balls Federation, Shanghai Cricket Association, and Shandong Cricket Association, among others. The delegation also visited universities and schools in Shanghai and Shandong, observing their cricket facilities and teams.
The primary focus of the discussions centered around the growth of cricket in China, including Hong Kong, as well as the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics starting from 2028 and its potential inclusion into the National Games. Additionally, talks were held regarding the appointment of technical experts from Hong Kong to aid in the development of cricket facilities and training venues, as well as plans for cricket exchanges between provinces, universities, and schools between Hong Kong and the Mainland. Another key agenda item was the aim to increase the frequency of international cricket matches hosted in China.
During the visit, Cricket Hong Kong, China and the Shandong Small Ball Sports Federation held a strategic cooperation signing ceremony at the Wendong Base Provincial Sports Training Center on April 29. The ceremony aimed to strengthen the in-depth integration of sporting culture between Hong Kong, China, and Shandong Province, and establish a partnership to enhance the development of cricket and increase youth interactions between the two regions.
Distinguished attendees at the signing ceremony included Burji Shroff, Chairperson of Cricket Hong Kong, China; Yin Xiaomin, Deputy Director of Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of Shandong Provincial People’s Government; Guan Ping, Level-2 Inspector of Shandong Administration of Sports; Xiu Zhentao, Member of Shandong Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Chairman of Shandong Small Ball Sports Federation, and Honorary Chairman of Shandong Cricket Association; Wang Jianjun, Member of the leadership of Jinan Municipal Bureau of Sports, Deputy Director of the Jinan Municipal Bureau of Sports; Song Jinbo, Vice President of the Shandong Cricket Association and President of the Jinan Cricket Association, among other esteemed leaders and guests.
Commenting on the collaboration, Xiu Zhentao stated, “This collaboration will serve as a new starting point for Hong Kong, China, and China to leverage their rich resources fully. We will continue to align with the country’s development direction, principles, and policies on sports development, working together to promote the concept of ‘leading the way and opening a new situation’ for both cricket industries. We aim to build a communication and cooperation platform for coaches, athletes, and cricket enthusiasts from both regions, using cricket as a means to connect and enhance the quality of the sport in Hong Kong, China, and the Mainland.”
Burji Shroff expressed his gratitude for the partnership with the Shandong Small Ball Sports Federation, stating, “I am honored to establish a relationship with the Shandong Small Ball Sports Federation to further develop youth cricket in the province and promote the growth of cricket in Hong Kong. Through this strategic cooperation agreement, our organizations can communicate and strengthen the development of cricket. By expanding the influence of cricket across China, we can increase participation opportunities and share the joy of this wonderful game.”
Guan Ping emphasized Shandong Sports’ commitment to upholding the founding spirit of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. She stated, “By building this partnership, we can benefit youth sports and create a new era for youth cricket in both regions. Our aim is to bring Hong Kong and Shandong closer together, fostering positive well-being and attitude development among the majority of young people. Through this collaboration, we aspire to make Shandong one of the strongest sporting provinces.”
Yin Xiaomin highlighted Shandong’s dedication to accelerating the province’s modernization, as instructed by General Secretary and President Xi Jinping. She stated, “Sports has become a distinguished business card to showcase Shandong, and we hope that Shandong and Hong Kong will collaborate to write a new chapter in sports competition, sports culture, and the sports industry. The Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of Shandong Provincial People’s Government will continue to improve services, create favorable conditions, build platforms, and enhance the development of both Shandong and Hong Kong.”
Cricket Hong Kong, China remains committed to fostering the growth of cricket in China, strengthening ties with sports authorities, and promoting cricket as a sport that unites nations and cultures.
For media inquiries, please contact Tommy Wong on tommy.wong@hkcricket.org
